Before the flames appear on the horizon, the best tool to protect your family is preparation.
The wildfires that have devastated the Spokane, Washington area are a reminder that these types of disasters are no longer exclusive to California or the Southwest.
The flames, fueled by drought and strong winds, have consumed nearly 16 square miles of land and destroyed more than 700 homes and other structures.
No one can control the weather, but we can help reduce the chances of a fire starting and, above all, increase the chances of escaping safely.
Here are five essential recommendations:
- Create a firebreak around your home.
Most homes that survive a wildfire do so because there is a firebreak around them. Remove dry leaves from the roof and gutters, prune low-hanging tree branches, remove dead bushes, and keep the lawn short. It’s also a good idea to keep firewood, gas tanks, and other flammable materials away from the walls of your home.
- Avoid starting fires unintentionally.
Never throw cigarette butts out of car windows, avoid making campfires when restrictions are in place, don’t use machinery that could generate sparks on high-risk days, and respect outdoor burning bans.
- Prepare a family evacuation plan.
When authorities order an evacuation, time is usually limited. The whole family should know where to exit, what the meeting point will be, and how to communicate if phones stop working. Identify at least two escape routes and practice them. Don’t forget your pets. If you live in an apartment, ask if there is an escape plan.
- Prepare an emergency kit.
Prepare a backpack in advance with medications, important documents, water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, chargers, cash, clothing, hygiene items, and basic supplies for several days. If you have important documents—passports, birth certificates—take photos of them and upload them to the cloud.
- Stay informed and act quickly.
Register with local emergency alert systems and follow the information and guidelines from the authorities. If an evacuation order is issued, don’t wait until you see the flames outside your window.
Wildfires are becoming more frequent and intense. The good news is that preparation makes a difference.
A well-protected home, an organized family, and a ready backpack can turn a chaotic situation into an orderly evacuation.
The most valuable heroism lies not in fighting the flames, but in having made the right decisions in advance to protect lives.
